Gerald “Gerry” A. Foote

Passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Monday, June 15, 2020, at age 95. He was preceded in death by his wife, Elizabeth (Knoll). Loving dad of Deborah Foote and Robert (Tina) Foote. Proud grandpa of Alyssa Foote (Parker Detjens), Raychel (Harrison) Barton, and great-granddaughter, Aubrey. Further survived by other relatives and friends.

Gerry was born and raised in Wisconsin.  He proudly served his country in the Army Air Corps (Air Force) during WWII. Throughout his life he worked in heavy construction, having worked on the Hyatt Regency Hotel, First Wisconsin Center, Park Place Towers, and various others. He retired in 1988 from Hunzinger Construction; his last project being the Bradley Center. (He helped put it up and he saw it taken down!)  In his retirement years, he was an avid golfer (leading most) and bowler. He also enjoyed fishing at “Foote’s Pond” and for over 50 years, deer hunting with family and relatives in Northern Wisconsin.

As a WWII Veteran, he had the privilege of going on the Stars and Stripes Honor Flight in 2013 visiting the WWII Memorial and so much more.  This was quite a memorable day for him and others, as they were able to share common experiences and memories together. Stories were shared that had never been told before.

Throughout his retirement, Gerry kept busy doing his favorite activities.  Until recently he even rode his stationary bike a few minutes each day, afterward giving Sadie, his “spotter”, a dog treat!  He was self-sufficient in caring for himself and his home.  If you happened to call him at 8:00 AM, he’d already driven to the barber for a haircut, shopped at the grocery store, and was home waiting for his favorite TV shows, such as Fox News, Highway to Heaven, any westerns (especially John Wayne), Judge Judy, and many more.

Gerry was happy, lighthearted, and easy-going.  He always had a story to tell. Not too much phased him and it’s not often he got overly excited.  If he really liked something, he’d say “It’s alright” and he was pretty agreeable to things, offering an “I guess so” or “I suppose.” He loved spending time with family and friends, especially his grand-daughters and great-granddaughter.  Everyone knew they could ask for his thoughts, ideas, and opinions, as in 95 years he had plenty. However, those who knew him also knew they didn’t dare bring up politics as he was firm in his opinions and no matter what was discussed or argued, he could never be swayed nor would he back down.  Throughout the last month, he stayed true to himself and showed unending determination and amazing strength as he fought cancer, saying “we can try” even on his last day. We say good-bye as he always did at the end of a telephone conversation… Sayonara!

Gerry was loved by family and friends and will be deeply missed.

Visitation at Krause Funeral Home, 9000 West Capitol Drive, Milwaukee, Wisconsin on Friday, June 26, 2020, from 11:00 AM to 12:45 PM. Service at 1:00 PM. Procession to Holy Cross Cemetery following service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Stars and Stripes Honor Flight are appreciated.